It is a big call for any performer - to go back to the role that made them famous over a decade ago. But Anthony Warlow says he is up for the challenge. Once again he is wearing the white mask for The Phantom of the Opera.
"This time around, I'm older, uglier and wiser," Warlow said.
"I think that I bring more gravity to it [the role] now."
Some 17 years ago, Warlow was widely regarded as one of the best phantoms in the world.
But he only stayed in the role for 11 months in Melbourne.
He missed the Sydney and Brisbane seasons, citing he needed a break.
Soon after leaving the production he was diagnosed with cancer and was forced to pull out of his next job - playing the lead in Jesus Christ Superstar.
Warlow says a sense of unfinished business, and his young daughter Phoebe, are the reasons why he is once again wearing the white mask.
"She had seen the film, but I wanted her to see what the real beast is like - and the real beast is fantastic. Smoke, mirrors ... absolutely romantic and theatrical," he said.
"She's the reason for it, as much they try to tell you it's financial."
Meanwhile, co-star Ana Marina says starring alongside Warlow is like a childhood fantasy come true.
"When I was quite young, the first time I heard the recording, I was really drawn into it and I started singing with the recording," she said.
"I've been singing it since then actually.
"It was certainly a passion of mine."
The Phantom of the Opera is currently playing in Melbourne.
It moves to Brisbane in February and Sydney in May. © 2007 Australian Broadcasting Corporation
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